Myths surrounding endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that is often misunderstood. We provide a list of the most common myths about endometriosis to help separate fact from fiction.
Myth |
Fact |
| Chronic period pain is normal |
FALSE Having chronic or severe pelvic pain at any time during your menstrual cycle is not normal and can be a symptom of endometriosis |
| All patients with endometriosis experience severe pain |
FALSE Some patients never experience any pain with their endometriosis |
| The pain associated with endometriosis will depend on the severity of the endometriosis |
FALSE People with mild (Stage 1 and 2) endometriosis can experience more pain than advanced (stage 3 and 4) endometriosis |
| Pain for patients with endometriosis only occurs during their period |
FALSE Patients with endometriosis can experience pain at any time |
| Having a hysterectomy will cure endometriosis |
FALSE Endometriosis can return after excision, even if you have a hysterectomy |
| Having endometriosis means you can’t have children |
FALSE Many people with endometriosis have no problems conceiving naturally. Other patients with endometriosis can conceive after surgery or with the assistance of IVF |
| Pregnancy cures endometriosis |
FALSE During pregnancy, the change in hormones can reduce your symptoms, but it won’t cure your endometriosis |
About endometriosis
- What is endometriosis
- What causes endometriosis
- What are the symptoms
- What are the risk factors
- Myths surrounding endometriosis
- Epworth Endometriosis Patient Guide